Celebrating Legacy: WKYC Unveils Wall of Honor to Recognize Legendary Staff

By Frank Macek 

WKYC's Wall of Honor

At WKYC, storytelling has always been at the heart of everything we do—on air, online, and behind the scenes. That commitment to excellence doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built on the passion, integrity, and hard work of the many individuals who’ve made their mark over the years. Now, we’re taking time to recognize those contributions in a lasting and meaningful way.

Recently, WKYC officially unveiled its new Wall of Honor, a permanent installation inside the station that pays tribute to standout employees whose legacies helped shape the culture and success of Channel 3. The Wall of Honor represents the best of who we are—and who we’ve been. It's more than plaques on a wall; it’s a powerful reminder of our shared history, our commitment to public service, and the unforgettable personalities who’ve walked our halls.

Two of the inaugural inductees are names familiar to anyone who's followed Cleveland television and radio: Jim Donovan and Joe Mosbrook. Both men brought distinctive voices, deep dedication, and an unwavering commitment to journalism during their tenures. They are, quite simply, legends of the craft.

Jim Donovan: The Voice of Cleveland Sports and Beyond

For more than three decades, Jim Donovan was a cornerstone of WKYC. He joined the station in 1985 as sports anchor, and quickly became a trusted, enthusiastic voice for Northeast Ohio sports fans. Whether calling the play-by-play for the Cleveland Browns or anchoring nightly sports segments, Jim built a reputation for his authentic style, tireless work ethic, and genuine connection with viewers.

His impact goes beyond sports. When WKYC named him a lead news anchor of his own show at 7p in 2012, Jim seamlessly transitioned into delivering the day’s top stories with authority and compassion. His strength during his public battle with leukemia, and his candid sharing of that journey, inspired thousands.

Jim Donovan’s dedication has been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Emmy wins and the Chuck Heaton Award for sports journalism. But perhaps his greatest achievement is the trust and loyalty he’s earned from Clevelanders across generations. His presence on the Wall of Honor cements his legacy as one of WKYC’s most influential and beloved figures.

Joe Mosbrook: Chronicler of Cleveland’s Stories

No tribute to WKYC's history would be complete without honoring Joe Mosbrook, one of the most respected and enduring reporters in the station’s history. Joe joined WKYC in 1969 and spent over two decades covering the most important stories in Northeast Ohio.

Known for his calm demeanor, crisp writing, and commanding delivery, Joe was often the face of breaking news during some of the city’s most turbulent and transformative decades. His work earned him accolades not only for journalism, but for his contributions to preserving Cleveland history—especially in the world of jazz, where he became a respected historian and author.

Joe's legacy continues through the countless journalists he mentored and the archival richness of his reporting. His induction into the Wall of Honor is a fitting tribute to a man who never stopped telling Cleveland’s story.

As WKYC looks toward the future, it does so with gratitude for those who helped build its foundation. The Wall of Honor ensures their stories—and their impact—will never be forgotten.

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